The Denver Broncos and star wide receiver Demaryius Thomas finally reached an agreement Wednesday afternoon. Thomas and Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant seemed to be running similar routes this free agency period, and cashed in on 4th and long-term deals within moments of each other.
The Broncos offered Thomas a deal similar to Bryants at five-years, $70 million, with $43.5 million of that guaranteed. The nearly identical deals make perfect sense seeing that he has posted similar production since coming in to the league in 2010 with at least 90 catches, 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns in his last three seasons with Denver.
“You look at the production DT has had the last three years, and I don’t think there’s any question DT is one of the top wide receivers in the league, and he’s being compensated that way now,” says GM John Elway. Hes right, Thomas is a key player for the organization and a team captain, this deal was necessary. He adds “It’s very well deserved on DT’s part. We have high expectations. I think he’s coming right into his prime. We don’t anticipate him backing up at all. Expectations are going to be increased now. We just think he’s got all the skills, and with the type of person he is, he’s the type of player and guy we want on the Denver Broncos. We have a tremendous amount of confidence in DT, and it’s why we felt comfortable paying him this kind of money.
However the deal doesnt come without controversy. With the way Denver and Dallas handled the deals of the two wide-outs a few flags raised and reports of NFLPA looking into a possible collusion between the two organizations emerged because of comments Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones made to Bryant about talking to Broncos General Manager John Elway about the two players.
Thomas doesnt seem to be relaxing; hes ready to get to work, hosting a football camp at the end of the week.
